Helping your dog deal with ‘Noisy November’

﻿Every dog owner knows how noisy November can be and the trauma it can present to your pet. Although the bright flashes and loud bangs are appealing to most humans, our canine companions are often less than impressed, often behaving in ways that are out of character.

You don’t need to reach for the ear defenders just yet as a bit of foresight can prevent any uncharacteristic or negative behaviour. Angell Petco has collected the very best advice from experts in the field to create Angell Petco’s ‘Ten Tail-wagging tips’ to help your dog remain calm and safe this firework season:

1. Caroline Kisko, Kennel Club Secretary suggests “playing a soundtrack of firework noises or firework sound videos from Youtube to get your dog used to hearing the sounds in the background.” but remember to play it quietly initially, so your dog gets used to the sound, before turning up the volume

2.Remember, remember it’s not just the 5th of November! Start preparing your dog earlier rather than later as celebrations tend not to be confined to just one night. Keep your ears close to the ground for when local organisations and neighbours are due to hold their firework nights a week either side of the actual date.

3.Keep the curtains closed and the volume on the television or stereo turned up when the night finally arrives in the hope that a lot of external sights and sounds are masked.

4.Remember just how in tune your dog is with your behaviour so it is important to act in a way which gives out positive vibes. They will soon notice any anxious or unusual behaviour so stay calm and relaxed.

5.Plan to feed your dog before the fireworks start so they can eat in peace. Any loud or unexpected bangs are enough to put any dog off their food!

6.Plan your dog’s evening stroll a little earlier than normal to avoid being outside when it gets dark and remember that a lot of fireworks events at schools start earlier than most.

7.‘Catch them being calm’ and reward them with their favourite treats as well as plenty of comfort and reassurance. They’ll think Christmas has come early!

8.If your dog does get anxious, they may pant more so keep their water topped up so they can quench their thirst.

9.Shutting windows and doors not only helps shut out noise and lights but will also give you peace of mind that potential escape routes are blocked.

10.If your dog needs to take a tinkle, try to keep them on a lead just in case your garden isn’t as secure as you think.